A CLOSE CALL (1929) Animation, Comedy | Short | Free Movie

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A Close Call (1929) is a black-and-white animated short film directed by Harry Bailey and John Foster, produced as part of the Aesop's Fables cartoon series under the Van Beuren Corporation. Released during the transitional period from silent to sound films, it blends slapstick action, early synchronized sound, and anthropomorphic animal characters in a light-hearted rescue tale.

The cartoon features a typical melodrama setup: a villain abducts the hero’s sweetheart, prompting a frantic and often absurd chase sequence filled with visual gags and exaggerated physical comedy. The animation style reflects the influence of silent-era cartoons, relying heavily on rhythmic motion and exaggerated expressions rather than complex storytelling.

While not as refined as contemporary Disney shorts of the time, A Close Call showcases the energetic, gag-driven style that characterized Van Beuren’s early sound-era output. Like many of the Aesop’s Fables cartoons, it ends with a humorous punchline or ironic twist, often delivered in a title card or visual pun.

The film is a snapshot of late 1920s animation, offering insight into how studios experimented with the new medium of sound and capitalized on familiar storytelling tropes to entertain Depression-era audiences.

Synopsis:

A Close Call (1929) is an animated short in the Aesop’s Fables series, known for its wacky humor and early synchronized sound. The cartoon follows the classic “damsel-in-distress” plot as a heroic young boy must rescue his sweetheart from a villainous pursuer. Filled with slapstick chases, bouncing rhythms, and surreal gags, the short ends—true to the series formula—with a humorous twist or unexpected resolution.

Cast & Crew:

Harry Bailey – Animator and director who later worked on Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies.
John Foster – Veteran animation director, known for his work with Paul Terry and later with Van Beuren.
Produced by: The Van Beuren Corporation
Animated by: Studio staff
Release Date: December 1, 1929 — United States
Produced by: The Van Beuren Corporation
Distributed by: Pathé Exchange
Animation: Black-and-white
Sound: Synchronized musical score and sound effects
Runtime: Approx. 7 minutes